SCORE and USDA have partnered to help the ag community in Minnesota. SCORE is adding a focus area with its volunteer network to work with farmers and ranchers across the country. Minnesota is part of the pilot program to provide free and confidential business mentoring and more to people seeking support in the early stages of building a farm/ranch business or in growing their current operation.

There are thousands of new and established agri businesses that could benefit from professional support. SCORE with its highly experienced business personnel is in an ideal position to offer this support. Initially the program will be managed by SCORE National. Five states, including Minnesota, are part of the pilot program.

In Minnesota, SCORE will conduct mentoring activities both in person and electronically, host training classes and offer general support to small agri businesses. It will work through the Farm Service agency, a division of USDA.

SCORE is looking for people in three categories:

Small Business Owners and EntrepreneursIf you are a business owner or ready to start an agri business, let SCORE help you start or grow your business.

Business AdvisorsIf you are in the business of helping other businesses and have a client that you feel could benefit from working with a SCORE volunteer, please send them our way for free mentoring and classes.

New VolunteersDo you have experience in farming or the industries that support ag? SCORE would love to talk with you about how you could help their efforts by being a volunteer.

No matter which of the three above you are, SCORE stands ready to help. You can contact SCORE at www.score.org or call or email Marshall Jones at 612-345-4635, mjones5724 at aol.com.